A 29-year-old man is to appear in court next month accused of deliberately starting a fire after a dog had to be rescued from a smoke-logged house.

Homeless Vinnie Giovanni was charged with arson with intent relating to the

fire in Lister Road, Margate on Sunday, August 27.

Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus had to search the house following fears people were still inside, but all were accounted for with no injuries.

Mr Giovanni was also charged with breaching a non-molestation order.

He was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Canterbury Crown Court on Tuesday, December 19.